Plumber

The Plumber, a member of Facilities Operations, performs journey-level work to plan, inspect, maintain, repair, modify, and install University plumbing, heating, water, gas, utility, and drainage systems. The incumbent consistently adheres to University safety regulations and established work procedures.

The incumbent in this position will work on a Monday through Friday, 1:00 pm to 9:30 pm shift schedule.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: With minimal supervision, the incumbent shall perform the following duties and responsibilities. Other duties may be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.

• Perform all facets of the plumbing and heating trade in accordance with the National Standard Plumbing Code in a safe and effective manner. Investigates problems with plumbing systems, evaluates alternate solutions and provides sound recommendations to supervisors. In emergency situations, takes immediate steps to contain the problem and to restore the system to good operating order. Examples of this work include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Assembles, installs and repairs plumbing fixtures such as sinks, commodes, bathtubs, water heaters, hot water tanks, and dishwashers.
  • Assembles and installs valves, pipe fittings and pipes composed of metals such as iron, steel, brass and lead and nonmetals such as plastic. Cuts and threads pipe.  Joins pipes by the use of screwed, bolted, soldered, caulked or plastic solvent joints.
  • Installs, repairs, modifies and maintains oil and gas fired residential heating systems.
  • Pressure tests piping systems to insure there are no leaks and that all system components are operating properly.
  • Maintains, troubleshoots, tests and inspects backflow prevention devices.
• Maintains current knowledge of the National Standard Plumbing and other applicablebuilding codes.
• Reads, understands and interprets construction related documents (drawings, submittals, technical manuals and specifications) in order to determine equipment and materials required or appropriate methods of installation.
• Maintains proper condition of campus drainage systems which will involve the use of the campus VacCon vehicle and other sewer jet equipment.
•  Ensures proper care in the safe use and maintenance of vehicles, tools and equipment.
• Maintains detailed records of corrective and preventive work assignments received through an automated work order system (Maximo).
• Assists other trades personnel in work projects or special assignments.
• Responds to emergency call-ins on campus and for emergency after hours work as needed.
• Communicates clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential duties and responsibilities in a satisfactory manner. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Must have 5 years journey level plumbing experience, along with the trade knowledge to effectively understand and perform all facets of the plumbing trade in accordance with the National Standard Plumbing Code and other applicable codes.
• Must possess high school diploma or an equivalency (GED).
• Must possess journeyman level knowledge of the potential occupational hazards connected with plumbing work and the associated safety standards and practices, which should be applied
• Must have strong background in residential/small commercial heating (installations, boiler repair, gas furnaces, etc.)
• Ability to safely operate or become proficient within 6 months with the safe and effective use of the campus VacCon sewer jet vehicle.
• Must be able to investigate routine and emergency problems with plumbing and heating systems, evaluate alternative solutions and provide sound recommendations to supervisors.
• Must be able to safely and effectively carry out corrective actions to campus plumbing issues.
• Must be able to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, submittals, cut sheets, layouts and other plumbing trade related documentation.
• Must be able to properly and safely use the tools of the trade and carry out all tasks expected of a plumber.
• Must have an excellent ability to work both independently and with other trades personnel and customers.
• Must be available for after hours and emergency call back work, which will involve the carrying of a cell phone.
• Must be able to clearly and effectively communicate, both verbal and written.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to pass a background check.
• Must be able to meet the physical requirements listed below.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification as a Licensed Master Plumber in the State of New Jersey.
• Completion of a State recognized four year apprentice training program in plumbing.

Physical Demands:   The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Stand or walk up to 2 hours at one time, up to 8 hours per day;
• Sit for less than 2 hours during an 8 hour day;
• Operates motor vehicles or heavy equipment (e.g., forklift, high reach, cherry picker) occasionally (less than 33% of the workday)
• Lift or carry up to 35 pounds frequently (34 – 66% of the workday) and 100 pounds occasionally (less than 33% of the workday);
• Lift up to 100 pounds to waist height and up to 35 pounds in a range of motions from floor to overhead:
• Frequently use hands for simple grasping, fine manipulation, pushing or pulling (34 – 66% of the workday);
• Occasionally climb stairs or ladders, dig, use jack hammer or chipping tools, lie down, push or pull with forces up to 100 pounds (less than 33% of the work day);
• Frequently bend, squat, kneel, knee stand, lift overheard, reach overhead, push or pull with forces up to 35 pounds; (34 – 66% of the work day);
• Work outdoors in a variety of temperatures and environmental conditions;
• Possess ability to work at heights, full range of body motions and physical agility, and ability to maintain balance.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.